Lesotho/Economy

Economy of Lesotho

An overview of key economic indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.

Explore Economic Domains

Growth & Output

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GDP (USD)
$2.1B(2023)
GDP PPP (USD)
$6.7B(2023)
GDP per Capita (USD)
$916(2023)
GDP Growth (inflation-adjusted)
1.8%(2023)
Inflation (CPI Annual %)
6.1%(2024)

Trade & Finance

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Exports (as share of GDP)
42.9%(2023)
Imports (as share of GDP)
98.6%(2023)
FDI Inflows (as share of GDP)
-1.2%(2023)
Remittance Inflow (USD)
$484.4M(2023)
Tax Revenue (as share of GDP)
30.4%(2022)

Labor & Income

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Unemployment Rate
16.1%(2024)
Employment in Services
36%(2023)
Poverty Rate
49.7%(2017)
GINI Index
44.9(2017)
GNI per Capita (USD)
$1,250(2023)

Energy & Environment

Coming Soon
Energy Use per Capita
10 kg oil eq.(2007)
Renewable Energy Consumption (%)
34.9%(2022)

Economic Snapshot Overview

A summary of key economic indicators for Lesotho

  • The economic architecture of Lesotho is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $2.12B
    2023
    . This places it as the 170th largest economy out of 191 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $916.28
    2023
    , while its GDP in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms is estimated at $6.66B, reflecting the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy is seeing modest growth of 1.8%
    2023
    , while managing moderate inflation, with a CPI of 6.1%
    2024
    .
  • On the global stage, the nation's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of factors. The nation runs a trade deficit, with exports at 42.9% of GDP and imports at 98.6%
    2023
    . Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows are significant, constituting -1.21% of the economy
    2023
    . This performance positions the country 170th globally out of 186 nations, indicating its relative attractiveness to foreign capital. Additionally, personal remittances received amount to a substantial $484.39M annually
    2023
    , highlighting the economic importance of its diaspora. The government's fiscal position is supported by a strong tax base, with tax revenue accounting for 30.4% of GDP
    2022
    .
  • The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $1,250
    2023
    . Globally, this ranks the nation 163rd out of 190 in terms of GNI per capita, providing a clear measure of its national wealth relative to others. The country faces significant labor market challenges, with an unemployment rate of 16.1%
    2024
    . The services sector is a primary driver of the labor market, accounting for 36.0% of total employment
    2023
    . Poverty remains a key issue, with 49.7% of the population living below the national poverty line
    2017
    . There is a moderate level of income inequality, with a Gini index of 44.9
    2017
    .
  • On the environment and energy front, energy consumption per capita is 9.727 kg of oil equivalent
    2007
    . The country is a leader in clean energy, with renewable sources making up 34.9% of total final energy consumption
    2022
    . Its commitment to clean energy places it 121st among 190 countries for its share of renewable energy consumption.

Key Economic Insights

Macroeconomic Health

Maintaining a balance between growth, inflation, and employment is the central challenge for economic policymakers.

Trade & Investment Profile

The degree of openness to trade and foreign investment is a major determinant of economic structure and resilience.

Social Equity & Distribution

Distributing the benefits of economic growth equitably is crucial for social cohesion and long-term stability.

Energy & Sustainability

Transitioning to a sustainable energy model is critical for mitigating climate risk and ensuring long-term energy security.

More About This Country

Neighbors & Regional Peers

Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.